Leeds CAMRA Beer Festival raises a glass to film

Whether it’s Star Wars, Harry Potter, Transpotting or Casablanca, bars and pubs have always had a part to play in film.

And that special link with the silver screen will be celebrated at the biggest-ever, extended Leeds CAMRA Beer Festival, which begins today at Pudsey Civic Hall.

The three-day programme not only celebrates Leeds CAMRA’s 40th anniversary but also the 100th anniversary of the Hyde Park Picture House.

And, to mark both milestones, beers with names like El Dorado, Quadrophenia and Easy Rider will line up with old favourites from across Yorkshire - as well as some new names from the region’s brewing industry.

“As a result of a survey we did among customers, we’ve done away with the break between sessions on the Saturday this year - which means we’re open from 11am to 11pm on the last day - or at least until the beer runs out, “ said spokesman Mike Hampshire.

“It’s certainly the most extensive programme we’ve ever been able to stage. With the popularity of the craft beers continuing to grow both at home and abroad, we’re hopeful that we’ll see out biggest turnout yet.”

One of the highlights of this year’s programme is the unveiling of Wharfe Bank Brewery’s The Crusader ruby ale - brewed to mark Leeds CAMRA’s ruby anniversary.

However, there will be another 200 beers to chose from as well as cider and perry and a Global Bar selling bottled beers from all over the world.

A tombola stall will also make a return, with organisers identifying Cancer Research UK as the charity to benefit from this year’s proceeds.

The festival opens between 11am and 3pm and 5pm and 11am today and tomorrow and between 11am and 11pm on Saturday.

Admission is free for the daytime sessions today and tomorrow but there is an admission fee of £4 tonight and £5 tomorrow night. Admission on Saturday also costs £5, except after 5pm, when admission is reduced to £3. Card-carrying CAMRA members will be admitted free on all three days, except on Friday evening, when a £3 fee will be charged. Students will also be admitted free this evening.

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